Concerns about racism in higher education have been growing, particularly in relation to antisemitism following the events of 7 October 2023, which saw a surge in incidences of antisemitism on university campuses.
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A parliamentary inquiry report into the Commission of Inquiry into Antisemitism at Australian Universities Bill 2024 (No.2), led by the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee, found universities’ responses to incidents of antisemitism inadequate and that further action was needed to protect the safety of students and staff and address tensions on campus.
On 29 October 2024, pursuant to section 7(c) of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011, the Attorney-General referred to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights the following matters for inquiry and report by 31 March 2025:
- the prevalence, nature and experiences of antisemitic activity at universities
- university frameworks for the prevention of, and responses to, antisemitism at universities
- the effectiveness and adequacy of these frameworks,
- the support provided to students, staff and academics experiencing antisemitism at universities
- international experiences and best practice in dealing with antisemitic activity at universities
- what policies or regulatory changes are required to better address and prevent antisemitism at universities
- any other relevant matters.
This inquiry is part of the Government’s multifaceted approach to addressing Australians’ complex experiences of racism.
The PJCHR has been asked to report to both Houses of the Parliament by 31 March 2025.
More details on the PJCHR’s inquiry into antisemitism at Australian universities can be found on the committee’s website.